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The May Edit: True Design Inspiration

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The May Edit: True Design Inspiration

As we say goodbye to May, we can’t help but share our roundup of the things that have been capturing our hearts and giving us inspiration in the world of design. These are recurring themes we’ve noticed in our projects, from fabulous finds to trending styles that are simply irresistible. So, let’s dive in and discover what’s been catching our eye this month!

Source: Inuit Interior Design

Opposing Color Schemes

You know what they say: opposites attract. Well, this holds true in the world of design as well. We’re smitten with rooms that dare to embrace opposite colors on the color wheel. It’s a design approach that manages to strike the perfect balance between playful and oh-so-yummy! For example, take a look at the photo above, courtesy of Inuit Interior Design. The clever use of opposing colors creates a visually stunning and harmonious space that exudes a unique charm. This is the kind of inspiration that makes us want to experiment with bold color choices, and explore the endless possibilities of this trend.

Tile Inspiration: Painted & Pretty

Let me take you on a little journey back to Florence, where I had the pleasure of slowly wandering through the vibrant streets. Everywhere I turned, my eyes were drawn to the mesmerizing patterned tiles as they turned even the exteriors of buildings into art. Full of inspiration, I couldn’t help but wonder: how I can bring this beauty home? So, take a peek at this gorgeous backsplash! I love the single throw of hand-painted tiles that are like mini masterpieces. And that stone sink? The combo is like a match made in design heaven 🤍 

Ok, let me dish on the details here. Bedrosians has this tile that adds a touch of magic — it makes your space feel almost like a secret hideaway. Secret: this isn’t handpainted, but man oh man does it look like it is! So, if you want the look but need to save some $$, this one’s for you. Also, we’ve rounded up some other favorites in the Shop the Look below. And, these are the real deal and very worth the splurge!

Source: Heidi Caillier Design

Mirror Magic

Let’s talk about mirrors! Lately, I’ve been on a mission to find mirrors that are anything but basic. The search is on for mirrors that bring that extra flair to a bathroom vanity or entryway. I’m talking about mirrors that make a statement, that say “Hey, I’m fabulous!” Check out this pic from Heidi Caillier Design. That mirror is like a funky shape-shifter, bringing all the fun and unique vibes into the room.

Source: Marie Flanigan Interiors

Look at this photo! Marie Flanigan Interiors totally nailed it with this snapshot. The combo of an iron leg table, a stone vessel sink, and that ornate vintage mirror? It gives me life 🤍 I’m already plotting how I can recreate that vibe in our own #highdeserttumaloranch project. I’ve got my eye on this antique dresser with a marble top that I’m about to transform into the ultimate guest bathroom vanity. Vintage charm meets desert chic, and I’m here for it!

Source: Unknown

Source: The Nordroom

Source: Design Studio Workstead

Plastered Walls

Plaster has been around for centuries, but it’s having a major moment right now. Why have I been deep-diving into all the DIY techniques to achieve that gorgeous textured look? Because I’m obsessed! Right now, I’ve got my eye on the fireplace at our Tumalo project, and I’m determined to plaster it to perfection. I’ve been scrolling through endless Pinterest boards for inspiration, saving all those swoon-worthy images of spaces draped in plaster. The organic texture, the subtle imperfections — it all adds up to a look that’s timeless. Of course, I’m crossing my fingers that we can tackle this project ourselves because it would be a dream! But hey, budget constraints might have their say in the matter … so stay tuned. In the meantime, let’s keep drooling over those envy-inducing spaces that have embraced the charm of plaster walls.

French Basket Inspiration

I’m head over heels for this straw tote with double handles — it just screams “effortless chic.” Whether I’m strolling through the farmers market, heading to a picnic, or even just commuting to and from the office, this basket is my summer go-to. I recently snagged mine from Boxwood Avenue Mercantile, and it’s a gem. The price was just right, and the size is perfect for all my essentials. 

There are many incredible options out there, each with its own unique flair. Here are a few more of my personal favorites to add to your summer shopping list. This crochet version is adorable — perfect for date night dining alfresco.

Paint Colors of the Month!

Lastly, let’s dive into the world of paint colors, specifically our favorite blues of the month. Blue is a versatile hue that can instantly elevate any space. Picture this: cabinetry in a stunning cornflower blue, adding a touch of charm and whimsy to your kitchen. Or, how about a pop of vibrant navy blue in a bar area, creating an inviting focal point? And let’s not forget about the bedroom – a painted dresser in a soft, pale blue can bring a sense of tranquility to your personal sanctuary. 

Here are a few of my top picks. Farrow & Ball Hazy is like a breath of fresh air, with a dreamy and ethereal pale blue shade. For a crisp and clean look, try Farrow & Ball Cabbage White. Why? Because it’s the slightest and most perfect hue to brighten up any space. And, if you’re feeling bold and adventurous, Farrow & Ball Hague Blue is a showstopper with its deep and sophisticated allure. Get your paint brushes ready and make some magic happen!

 

hazy blue no. cc6 farrow & ball

 

 

cabbage white no. 269 farrow & ball

 

hague blue no. 30 farrow & ball

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Ok here’s the truth- I have a lot of favorite whites- but this may be my new fave for cabinetry! 
Here’s the part no one tells you:
Most “bad” white cabinets aren’t bad colors… they’re bad context. White fails when it’s chosen in isolation. Paint chips are judged under fluorescent store lighting, held next to nothing, and decided before cabinets, counters, floors, or hardware are even finalized. Then that same white gets wrapped around an entire kitchen and suddenly feels gray at noon, yellow at night, or weirdly dull no matter how much light you have.
That’s why we chose Shoji White by Sherwin-Williams for our kitchen cabinets this time around.
Not because it’s trendy.
Not because it photographs well.
But because it behaves.
Shoji White has a soft warmth that doesn’t show up on a chip, but does show up when it’s next to real materials. It stays steady throughout the day, doesn’t compete with natural wood or stone, and doesn’t turn chalky once it’s covering full-height cabinetry. That consistency is what actually makes a white “safe” — not how popular it is.
Designer truth:
If a white only looks good at one time of day, it’s not a good cabinet white.
If it needs perfect lighting to work, it’s not a good cabinet white.
If paint decisions make you spiral, it’s not because you’re bad at this (it’s because white is reactive, and no one teaches you how to test it properly).
Our blog goes live today at 3:00pm PST, where I break down how to evaluate whites in your actual space and share a few other cabinet whites we consider truly “safe” — the ones we use repeatedly for clients because they hold up in real life, not just in photos.
Save this if you’re choosing cabinets soon.
When I turned 50, I thought my story was already written.
Turns out, I was just getting to the good part.
I’ve rebuilt homes—and rebuilt a life.
Left what was familiar. Started over more than once.
Turned a lifelong love for design into a business alongside my husband, creating intentional homes for people all over the country.
I believe spaces should hold real life… the messy, meaningful, beautiful moments.
And I’ve always looked at older homes and thought, look at the potential.  Maybe that’s why starting over has never scared me, because I see life the same way. Not as finished, but as full of possibility.
How about you? Are you in the middle part of life and just getting going??? I want to hear! And, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you want some advice on how to get started- I’m realizing we are all in this together. 🤍
Life is short. Make it beautiful.
January, already?!
This month’s edit ended up being a mix of things I naturally reached for: cozy knits, everyday staples that don’t try too hard, little home upgrades that make winter feel more intentional. A few things for staying in, a few things for stepping out, and a few things that just make the house feel good again after the holiday rush.
It’s that in-between season where comfort wins, neutrals feel right, and anything with warmth or texture just makes sense. Simple, useful, grounding.
Here’s what’s on my radar as we settle into the new year. Comment “edit” for all my monthly picks! (Live on the blog at 3:00pm PST).
Hi 🤍 if you’re new here—my husband and I are the founders of Clouz Houz.
Three months ago, we packed up our life and moved across the country to follow a dream: expanding our design business in new ways and planting roots in a place completely unfamiliar to us. 
We bought a house in Middle Tennessee to renovate and call home… in a community where we knew no one.
It’s been scary. And humbling.
But we’re doing it.
While we haven’t gotten as far as we hoped on this first project, we are making progress—little by little. New hardwood floors. New electrical. Kitchen and laundry demo complete. A bathroom fully replumbed and rebuilt. 
And still… so much more ahead.
Living in the middle of a renovation while starting over at the same time has been overwhelming in ways we didn’t anticipate. This isn’t our first remodel, but this season feels different. It’s stretching us. Asking for patience. For trust. For presence.
And maybe that’s the point.
Progress doesn’t equal perfection. Sometimes it just looks like staying in it, even when the path feels uncertain. Learning a new place. Meeting new people. Believing that what you’re building—slowly—will be worth it.
This house is testing us, yes. 
Follow along as we restore this 1930s bungalow and build a new chapter, one step at a time.
2026, we can’t wait to see all that you have in store for us. 🤍